Niagara SkyWheel, Clifton Hill

Clifton Hill SkyWheel is Canada’s largest observation wheel that takes you 175 feet above Niagara Falls. From the top you can take in panoramic views of the Horseshoe and American Falls, Niagara River, and city skyline. The Niagara SkyWheel in Clifton Hill sits in the heart of the entertainment district.

 

This year-round attraction features climate-controlled gondolas with heating in the winter and air conditioning in the summer for a comfortable ride in any season. Each ride lasts between 8 to 12 minutes, offering at least three full rotations and unforgettable 360° views, especially dazzling at night when the Falls and skyline are lit up in color. 

 

The SkyWheel is open daily, with extended summer hours, and is included in the popular Clifton Hill Fun Pass—a top-value ticket bundle for Niagara’s best attractions.

 

Top Tips for Guests Visiting Skywheel Clifton Hill

- For the most magical views, time your ride around sunset or after dark to see Niagara Falls and the skyline lit up.

- Save money by bundling your Niagara SkyWheel ticket with other top attractions like Dinosaur Adventure Golf and Movieland Wax Museum.

- For the best value, get your niagara skywheel ticket as part of the Clifton Hill Fun Pass.

- The enclosed gondolas have clear windows perfect for photography. Wear solid colors to pop in pictures.

- Though rides operate year-round, visibility is best on clear days. Rides may pause during extreme weather.

 

How to Get There

- Easily accessible via the QEW (Queen Elizabeth Way) from Toronto or Buffalo.

-Parking is available at the Clifton Hill Parking Lot, located right near the SkyWheel entrance.

 

By WEGO Bus

- Take the WEGO Green or Red Line, which stops at the base of Clifton Hill—just steps from the SkyWheel.

 

Best Time to Visit

- Evening or Sunset is ideal for a magical ride—witness Niagara Falls illuminated in vibrant colors and the city lights twinkling below.

- Daytime rides offer clear, panoramic views of the Falls, the Niagara River, and surrounding attractions—perfect for sightseeing and photography.

 

Features of Skywheel

The SkyWheel Niagara Falls experience is a year-round highlight offering comfort and 360° views. The Clifton Hill SkyWheel blends comfort, safety, and unbeatable scenery to create a memorable Niagara Falls experience for all ages. Here are its standout features:

 

Towering Height:

Reaching 175 feet (53 metres), it’s one of Canada’s tallest observation wheels, offering unrivaled views of both the Horseshoe and American Falls, as well as the Niagara River and skyline.

 

42 Fully Enclosed Gondolas:

Each gondola is climate-controlled, with air conditioning in summer and heating in winter, ensuring a pleasant ride all year round—rain, snow, or shine.

 

Spacious and Comfortable:

Gondolas comfortably hold 6 to 8 people, with a total ride capacity of 336 guests at once. They're also equipped with UV-protected glass for glare-free photos.

 

Ride Duration & Experience:

The typical ride lasts 8 to 12 minutes and includes at least 3 full rotations, giving guests ample time to enjoy the panoramic views.

 

Accessibility and Safety:

The SkyWheel is wheelchair accessible, offers stroller parking, and undergoes daily inspections.

 

Onboard Audio Tour:

Riders can listen to an optional guided tour with fun facts and information about Niagara Falls and surrounding landmarks.

 

Nighttime Spectacle:

The gondolas are enhanced with interior lighting, and the wheel itself becomes part of the Niagara skyline at night, offering a glowing spectacle against the Falls.

 

Fun Facts About Skywheel

- The SkyWheel stands 175 feet (53.3 metres) tall—making it one of the largest observation wheels in Canada.

- The wheel has a backup generator, so it can keep operating during power outages.

- There are 42 Swiss-manufactured gondolas, each capable of seating 6 to 8 passengers, with a total weight limit of 1,360 lbs per cabin.

The Clifton Hill SkyWheel isn’t just a ride—it’s a part of Niagara Falls history and a can’t-miss highlight of any visit.